Abstract:

An electrosurgical forceps includes a shaft having a pair of jaw members
at a distal end thereof that is movable about a pivot from a first
position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation relative
to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are closer to
one another for grasping tissue. A movable handle is included that
actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another
and at least one of the jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of
electrical energy such that the jaw members are capable of conducting
energy to tissue held therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is
disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface of one or both jaw
members and about the pivot. The flexible boot includes one or more
mechanically reinforcing elements operatively coupled thereto that is
configured enhance the rigidity of the insulating boot.

Claims:

1. An electrosurgical forceps, comprising:a shaft having a pair of jaw
members at a distal end thereof, the jaw members being movable about a
pivot from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in
spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the
jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue;a movable
handle that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to
one another;at least one of the jaw members adapted to connect to a
source of electrical energy such that the at least one jaw member is
capable of conducting energy to tissue held therebetween; anda flexible
insulating boot disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface of
at least one jaw member and about the pivot, at least a portion of the
flexible boot including at least one mechanically reinforcing element
operatively coupled thereto that is configured enhance the rigidity of
the insulating boot.

2. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1 wherein the at least
one mechanically reinforcing element includes a wire-like support member
disposed along a length thereof.

3. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1 wherein the at least
one mechanically reinforcing element includes a pair of opposing
wire-like support member disposed along a length of the flexible
insulating boot.

4. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 2 wherein the wire-like
support member is adhered to at least one of an outer and inner periphery
of the flexible insulating boot.

5. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 2 wherein the wire-like
support member is at least one of co-extruded and insert molded within
the flexible insulating boot.

6. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1 wherein the at least
one mechanically reinforcing element is disposed around at least one of
the distal and proximal ends of the flexible insulating boot.

7. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 6 wherein the at least
one mechanically reinforcing element is at least one of co-extruded and
insert molded within the flexible insulating boot.

8. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 6 wherein the at least
one mechanically reinforcing element is adhered to at least one of an
outer and inner periphery of the flexible insulating boot.

9. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1 wherein the at least
one mechanically reinforcing element is manufactured from at least one of
flexible metal, surgical stainless steel, NiTi, thermoplastic, polymer,
high durometer material and combinations thereof.

10. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1 wherein the at least
one mechanically reinforcing element is non-conductive.

11. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 1 wherein the at least
one mechanically reinforcing element is conductive.

12. An electrosurgical forceps, comprising:a shaft having a pair of jaw
members at a distal end thereof, the jaw members being movable about a
pivot from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in
spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the
jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue;a movable
handle that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to
one another;at least one of the jaw members adapted to connect to a
source of electrical energy such that the at least one jaw member is
capable of conducting energy to tissue held therebetween; anda flexible
insulating boot disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface of
at least one jaw member and about the pivot, at least a portion of the
flexible boot including a plurality of electrically conductive wire-like
reinforcing elements disposed along a length thereof, the plurality of
electrically conductive wire-like reinforcing elements being adapted to
connect to the current source of electrical energy to carry electrical
energy to the at least one jaw member.

13. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 12 wherein the plurality
of electrically conductive wire-like reinforcing elements is at least one
of co-extruded and insert molded within the flexible insulating boot.

14. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 12 wherein at least one
of the plurality of electrically conductive wire-like reinforcing
elements carries a first electrical potential and at least one of the
plurality of electrically conductive wire-like reinforcing elements
carries a second electrical potential.

15. An electrosurgical forceps, comprising:a shaft having a pair of jaw
members at a distal end thereof, the jaw members being movable about a
pivot from a first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in
spaced relation relative to one another to a second position wherein the
jaw members are closer to one another for grasping tissue;a movable
handle that actuates a drive assembly to move the jaw members relative to
one another;at least one of the jaw members adapted to connect to a
source of electrical energy such that the at least one jaw member is
capable of conducting energy to tissue held therebetween; anda flexible
insulating boot disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface of
at least one jaw member and about the pivot, at least a portion of the
flexible boot including at least one guard rail defined therein
dimensioned to receive at least one corresponding retention member
therealong, each of said retention members including a hook-like distal
end operatively engageable with at least one of the jaw members for
securing the flexible insulating boot to the jaw members.

16. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 15 wherein a proximal
end of the at least one corresponding retention member is configured to
engage the shaft.

17. An electrosurgical forceps according to claim 16 wherein the forceps
includes a heat shrink material disposed over the shaft that secures the
proximal end of the at least one corresponding retention member atop the
shaft.

Description:

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001]The present application claims the benefit of priority to U.S.
Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/995,757 filed on Sep. 28, 2007, the
entire contents of which being incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

[0002]1. Technical Field

[0003]The present disclosure relates to an insulated electrosurgical
forceps and more particularly, the present disclosure relates to an
insulating boot for use with either an endoscopic or open bipolar and/or
monopolar electrosurgical forceps for sealing, cutting, and/or
coagulating tissue.

[0004]2. Background of Related Art

[0005]Electrosurgical forceps utilize both mechanical clamping action and
electrical energy to effect hemostasis by heating the tissue and blood
vessels to coagulate, cauterize and/or seal tissue. As an alternative to
open forceps for use with open surgical procedures, many modern surgeons
use endoscopes and endoscopic instruments for remotely accessing organs
through smaller, puncture-like incisions. As a direct result thereof,
patients tend to benefit from less scarring and reduced healing time.

[0006]Endoscopic instruments are inserted into the patient through a
cannula, or port, which has been made with a trocar. Typical sizes for
cannulas range from three millimeters to twelve millimeters. Smaller
cannulas are usually preferred, which, as can be appreciated, ultimately
presents a design challenge to instrument manufacturers who must find
ways to make endoscopic instruments that fit through the smaller
cannulas.

[0007]Many endoscopic surgical procedures require cutting or ligating
blood vessels or vascular tissue. Due to the inherent spatial
considerations of the surgical cavity, surgeons often have difficulty
suturing vessels or performing other traditional methods of controlling
bleeding, e.g., clamping and/or tying-off transected blood vessels. By
utilizing an endoscopic electrosurgical forceps, a surgeon can either
cauterize, coagulate/desiccate and/or simply reduce or slow bleeding
simply by controlling the intensity, frequency and duration of the
electrosurgical energy applied through the jaw members to the tissue.
Most small blood vessels, i.e., in the range below two millimeters in
diameter, can often be closed using standard electrosurgical instruments
and techniques. However, if a larger vessel is ligated, it may be
necessary for the surgeon to convert the endoscopic procedure into an
open-surgical procedure and thereby abandon the benefits of endoscopic
surgery. Alternatively, the surgeon can seal the larger vessel or tissue.

[0008]It is thought that the process of coagulating vessels is
fundamentally different than electrosurgical vessel sealing. For the
purposes herein, "coagulation" is defined as a process of desiccating
tissue wherein the tissue cells are ruptured and dried. "Vessel sealing"
or "tissue sealing" is defined as the process of liquefying the collagen
in the tissue so that it reforms into a fused mass. Coagulation of small
vessels is sufficient to permanently close them, while larger vessels
need to be sealed to assure permanent closure.

[0009]A general issue with existing electrosurgical forceps is that the
jaw members rotate about a common pivot at the distal end of a metal or
otherwise conductive shaft such that there is potential for both the
jaws, a portion of the shaft, and the related mechanism components to
conduct electrosurgical energy (either monopolar or as part of a bipolar
path) to the patient tissue. Existing electrosurgical instruments with
jaws either cover the pivot elements with an inflexible shrink-tube or do
not cover the pivot elements and connection areas and leave these
portions exposed.

SUMMARY

[0010]The present disclosure relates to an electrosurgical forceps
including a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a distal end thereof
that are movable about a pivot from a first position wherein the jaw
members are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a
second position wherein the jaw members are closer to one another for
grasping tissue. A movable handle is included that actuates a drive
assembly to move the jaw members relative to one another and at least one
of the jaw members is adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy
such that the jaw members are capable of conducting energy to tissue held
therebetween. A flexible insulating boot is disposed on at least a
portion of an exterior surface of one or both jaw members and about the
pivot. The flexible boot includes one or more mechanically reinforcing
elements operatively coupled thereto that is configured enhance the
rigidity of the insulating boot.

[0011]In one embodiment, the mechanically reinforcing element(s) may
include a conductive or non-conductive wire-like support member disposed
along a length thereof or an opposing wire-like support member disposed
along a length of the flexible insulating boot. The wire-like support
member is adhered to at least one of an outer and inner periphery of the
flexible insulating boot. In another embodiment, the wire-like support
member is co-extruded or insert molded within the flexible insulating
boot.

[0012]In another embodiment, the mechanically reinforcing element(s) is
disposed around at least one of the distal and proximal ends of the
flexible insulating boot and may be co-extruded or insert molded within
the flexible insulating boot. The mechanically reinforcing element may be
adhered to an outer or inner periphery of the flexible insulating boot.

[0013]In yet another embodiment, the mechanically reinforcing element is
manufactured from a flexible metal, a surgical stainless steel, NiTi, a
thermoplastic, a polymer, a high durometer material and/or combinations
thereof.

[0014]In yet another embodiment, the flexible insulating boot is disposed
on at least a portion of an exterior surface of one or both jaw members
and about the pivot and includes a plurality of electrically conductive
wire-like reinforcing elements disposed along a length thereof. The
plurality of electrically conductive wire-like reinforcing elements is
adapted to connect to the energy source of electrical energy to carry
electrical energy to the jaw members. The plurality of electrically
conductive wire-like reinforcing elements may be co-extruded or insert
molded within the flexible insulating boot. In one embodiment, one or
more of the plurality of electrically conductive wire-like reinforcing
elements carries a first electrical potential and one or more of the
plurality of electrically conductive wire-like reinforcing elements
carries a second electrical potential.

[0015]In still another embodiment of the present disclosure, the flexible
insulating boot is disposed on at least a portion of an exterior surface
of one or both jaw member and about the pivot and includes at least one
guard rail defined therein dimensioned to receive one or more
corresponding retention members therealong. The retention members may
include a hook-like distal end operatively engageable with the jaw
members for securing the flexible insulating boot to the jaw members. In
one embodiment, the proximal end of the corresponding retention member(s)
is configured to engage the shaft. The forceps may also include a heat
shrink material disposed over the shaft that secures the proximal end of
the corresponding retention member(s) atop the shaft.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016]Various embodiments of the subject instrument are described herein
with reference to the drawings wherein:

[0017]FIG. 1 is a left, perspective view including an endoscopic bipolar
forceps showing a housing, a shaft and an end effector assembly having an
insulating boot according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018]FIG. 2A is an enlarged, right perspective view of the end effector
assembly with a pair of jaw members of the end effector assembly shown in
open configuration having the insulating boot according to the present
disclosure;

[0019]FIG. 2B is an enlarged, bottom perspective view of the end effector
assembly with the jaw members shown in open configuration having the
insulating boot according to the present disclosure;

[0020]FIG. 3 is a right, perspective view of another version of the
present disclosure that includes an open bipolar forceps showing a
housing, a pair of shaft members and an end effector assembly having an
insulating boot according to the present disclosure;

[0021]FIG. 4A is an rear perspective view of the end effector assembly of
FIG. 1 showing a pair of opposing jaw members in an open configuration;

[0022]FIG. 4B is an rear perspective view of the end effector assembly of
FIG. 1 showing a pair of opposing jaw members in a closed configuration;

[0023]FIG. 4C is an side view of the end effector assembly of FIG. 1
showing the jaw members in a open configuration;

[0024]FIG. 5 is an enlarged, schematic side view of the end effector
assembly showing one embodiment of the insulating boot configured as a
mesh-like material;

[0025]FIG. 6A is an enlarged, schematic side view of the end effector
assembly showing another embodiment of the insulating boot which includes
an enforcement wire disposed longitudinally therealong which is
dimensioned to strengthen the boot;

[0027]FIG. 7 is an enlarged, schematic side view of the end effector
assembly showing another embodiment of the insulating boot which includes
wire reinforcing rings disposed at the distal end proximal ends thereof;

[0028]FIG. 8A is an enlarged view of a another embodiment of the
insulating boot according to the present disclosure;

[0030]FIG. 8C is an enlarged view of the insulating boot of FIG. 8A shown
in a partially compressed orientation;

[0031]FIG. 8D is an enlarged side view of the end effector assembly shown
with the insulating boot of FIG. 8A disposed thereon;

[0032]FIG. 8E is an enlarged side view of the end effector assembly shown
with the insulating boot of FIG. 8A disposed thereon shown in a partially
compressed orientation;

[0033]FIG. 9A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the insulating
boot according to the present disclosure including a mesh and silicone
combination;

[0034]FIG. 9B is a greatly-enlarged, broken view showing the radial
expansion of the mesh portion of the insulating boot of FIG. 9A when
longitudinally compressed;

[0035]FIG. 10 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the insulating
boot according to the present disclosure including a detent and dollop of
adhesive to provide mechanical retention of the insulating boot atop the
forceps jaws;

[0036]FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the insulating
boot according to the present disclosure including a chamfer section
which provides an inflow channel for the adhesive during curing;

[0037]FIG. 12 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the insulating
boot according to the present disclosure including a heat activate
adhesive flow ring which facilitates adherence of the insulating boot to
the jaw members;

[0038]FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the insulating
boot according to the present disclosure including an adhesive layer
which seals the junction between the insulating boot and the jaw
overmold;

[0039]FIG. 14 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the insulating
boot according to the present disclosure which includes a tape layer to
hold the boot against the back of the jaw members;

[0040]FIG. 15A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the insulating
boot according to the present disclosure including a ring of elastomer
connections which both transfer current and facilitate retention of the
insulating boot atop the jaw members;

[0042]FIG. 16 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating sheath filled with silicone gel
to facilitate insertion of the cannula within a body cavity;

[0043]FIG. 17A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes a plastic shield overmolded atop the jaw
members to insulate the jaw members from one another;

[0044]FIG. 17B is an enlarged view of a the two jaw members of FIG. 17A
shown assembled;

[0045]FIG. 18A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure similar to FIGS. 17A and 17B wherein a weather stripping is
utilized to seal the gap between jaw members when assembled;

[0046]FIG. 18B is a front cross section along line 18B-18B of FIG. 18A;

[0047]FIG. 19A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot with a series of radially
extending ribs disposed therearound to reduce surface friction of the
insulating boot during insertion through a cannula;

[0048]FIG. 19B is a front cross section along line 19B-19B of FIG. 19A;

[0049]FIG. 20 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure wherein a soft, putty-like material acts as the insulator for
the various moving parts of the jaw members;

[0050]FIG. 21 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating shield disposed between the boot
and the metal sections of the jaw members;

[0051]FIG. 22A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes a plastic wedge disposed between the boot and
the proximal end of the jaw members which allows the jaw members to
pivot;

[0053]FIG. 23A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes a silicone boot with a ring disposed therein
which is composed of an adhesive material which actively fills any holes
created by arcing high current discharges;

[0055]FIG. 24A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes a silicone boot with an ring disposed therein
which is composed of an insulative material which actively fills any
holes created by arcing high current discharges;

[0056]FIG. 24B is a cross section along line 24B-24B of FIG. 24A;

[0057]FIG. 25 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure wherein a distal end of a shaft which is overmolded with a
silicone material;

[0058]FIG. 26A is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot being made from a low
durometer material and a high durometer material--the low durometer
material being disposed about the moving parts of the jaw members;

[0059]FIG. 26B is a cross section along line 26B-26B of FIG. 26A;

[0060]FIG. 27 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating ring being made from a high
durometer material;

[0061]FIG. 28 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot which is packaged with a
cannula and designed for engagement over the jaw members when the jaw
members are inserted into the cannula;

[0062]FIGS. 29A-29D are enlarged views of other embodiments of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot having varying inner and
outer diameters;

[0063]FIG. 30 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot having a detent in the jaw
overmold which is designed to mechanically engage the insulating boot;

[0064]FIG. 31 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot having a tapered distal end;

[0065]FIG. 32 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot having a square taper distal
end;

[0066]FIGS. 33A and 33B are enlarged views of another embodiment of the
present disclosure which includes a co-molded boot having a silicone
portion and proximal and side portions made a thermoplastic material;

[0067]FIG. 34 is an enlarged view of another embodiment having a silicone
boot with a plastic shell overlapped with a heat shrink tubing;

[0068]FIGS. 35A-35B is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the
present disclosure including a thermoplastic clevis having a pair of
fingers and which project inwardly to mechanically engage the proximal
end of jaw members;

[0069]FIG. 36 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes a silicone overmolded clevis similar to the
embodiment of FIG. 38 which also includes a thermoplastic tube configured
to encompass an endoscopic shaft member;

[0070]FIG. 37 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure with thermoplastic rails along a length thereof;

[0071]FIG. 38A-38D are enlarged views of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot with a ring-like mechanical
interface which is configured to include a key-like interface for
engaging the proximal ends of the jaw members;

[0072]FIG. 39A-39D are enlarged views of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot having a key-like interface
disposed at a distal end thereof for engaging the proximal ends of the
jaw members, the insulating boot being made from a low durometer material
and a high durometer material;

[0073]FIG. 40 are enlarged views of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes a plastic guard rail which secures the
insulating boot to the jaw members and heat shrink material by a series
of hook-like appendages;

[0074]FIG. 41 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot having a series of pores
defined in an outer periphery thereof, the pores having a heat activated
lubricant disposed therein the facilitate insertion of the forceps within
a cannula;

[0075]FIG. 42 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes a heat-cured adhesive which is configured to
mechanically engage and secure the insulating boot to the jaw members;

[0076]FIG. 43 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes an insulating boot having an overlapping
portion which engages overlaps the jaw members, the jaw members including
a hole defined therein which contains a glue which bonds to the
overlapping portion of the insulating boot;

[0077]FIGS. 44A-44B are enlarged views of another embodiment of the
present disclosure which includes an uncured adhesive sleeve which is
configured to engage the distal end of the shaft and the jaw members and
bond to the uninsulated parts when heated;

[0078]FIGS. 45A-45B are enlarged views of another embodiment of the
present disclosure which includes an insulating boot having an uncured
adhesive ring which is configured to bond and secure the insulating boot
to the jaw members when heated; and

[0079]FIG. 46 is an enlarged view of another embodiment of the present
disclosure which includes a coating disposed on the exposed portions of
the jaw members, the coating being made from a material that increases
resistance with heat or current.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0080]Referring initially to FIGS. 1-2B, one particularly useful
endoscopic forceps 10 is shown for use with various surgical procedures
and generally includes a housing 20, a handle assembly 30, a rotating
assembly 80, a trigger assembly 70 and an end effector assembly 100 that
mutually cooperate to grasp, seal and divide tubular vessels and vascular
tissue. For the purposes herein, forceps 10 will be described generally.
However, the various particular aspects of this particular forceps are
detailed in commonly owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/460,926,
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/953,757 and U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 11/348,072 the entire contents of all of which are incorporated
by reference herein.

[0081]Forceps 10 also includes a shaft 12 that has a distal end 16
dimensioned to mechanically engage the end effector assembly 100 and a
proximal end 14 that mechanically engages the housing 20 through rotating
assembly 80. As will be discussed in more detail below, the end effector
assembly 100 includes a flexible insulating boot 500 configured to cover
at least a portion of the exterior surfaces of the end effector assembly
100.

[0082]Forceps 10 also includes an electrosurgical cable 310 that connects
the forceps 10 to a source of electrosurgical energy, e.g., a generator
(not shown). The generator includes various safety and performance
features including isolated output, independent activation of
accessories, and Instant Response® technology (a proprietary
technology of Valleylab, Inc., a division of Tyco Healthcare, LP) that
provides an advanced feedback system to sense changes in tissue many
times per second and adjust voltage and current to maintain appropriate
power. Cable 310 is internally divided into a series of cable leads (not
shown) that each transmit electrosurgical energy through their respective
feed paths through the forceps 10 to the end effector assembly 100.

[0083]Handle assembly 30 includes a two opposing handles 30a and 30b which
are each movable relative to housing 20 from a first spaced apart
position wherein the end effector is disposed in an open position to a
second position closer to housing 20 wherein the end effector assembly
100 is positioned to engage tissue. Rotating assembly 80 is operatively
associated with the housing 20 and is rotatable in either direction about
a longitudinal axis "A" (See FIG. 1). Details of the handle assembly 30
and rotating assembly 80 are described in the above-referenced patent
applications, namely, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/460,926, U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/953,757 and U.S. patent application Ser.
No. 11/348,072.

[0084]As mentioned above and as shown best in FIGS. 2A and 2B, end
effector assembly 100 is attached at the distal end 14 of shaft 12 and
includes a pair of opposing jaw members 110 and 120. Movable handle 40 of
handle assembly 30 is ultimately connected to a the drive assembly (not
shown) that, together, mechanically cooperate to impart movement of the
jaw members 110 and 120 from an open position wherein the jaw members 110
and 120 are disposed in spaced relation relative to one another, to a
clamping or closed position wherein the jaw members 110 and 120 cooperate
to grasp tissue therebetween. All of these components and features are
best explained in detail in the above-identified commonly owned U.S.
application Ser. No. 10/460,926.

[0085]FIG. 3 shows insulating boot 500 configured to engage a forceps 400
used in open surgical procedures. Forceps 400 includes elongated shaft
portions 412a and 412b having an end effector assembly 405 attached to
the distal ends 416a and 416b of shafts 412a and 412b, respectively. The
end effector assembly 405 includes pair of opposing jaw members 410 and
420 which are pivotably connected about a pivot pin 465 and which are
movable relative to one another to grasp tissue.

[0086]Each shaft 412a and 412b includes a handle 415a and 415b,
respectively, disposed at the proximal ends thereof. As can be
appreciated, handles 415a and 415b facilitate movement of the shafts 412a
and 412b relative to one another which, in turn, pivot the jaw members
410 and 420 from an open position wherein the jaw members 410 and 420 are
disposed in spaced relation relative to one another to a clamping or
closed position wherein the jaw members 410 and 420 cooperate to grasp
tissue therebetween. Details relating to the internal mechanical and
electromechanical components of forceps 400 are disclosed in
commonly-owned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/962,116. As will be
discussed in more detail below, an insulating boot 500 or other type of
insulating device as described herein may be configured to cover at least
a portion of the exterior surfaces of the end effector assembly 405 to
reduce stray current concentrations during electrical activation.

[0087]As best illustrated in FIG. 3, one of the shafts, e.g., 412b,
includes a proximal shaft connector 470 which is designed to connect the
forceps 400 to a source of electrosurgical energy such as an
electrosurgical generator (not shown). The proximal shaft connector 470
electromechanically engages an electrosurgical cable 475 such that the
user may selectively apply electrosurgical energy as needed. The cable
470 connects to a handswitch 450 to permit the user to selectively apply
electrosurgical energy as needed to seal tissue grasped between jaw
members 410 and 420. Positioning the switch 450 on the forceps 400 gives
the user more visual and tactile control over the application of
electrosurgical energy. These aspects are explained below with respect to
the discussion of the handswitch 450 and the electrical connections
associated therewith in the above-mentioned commonly-owned U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/962,116

[0088]A ratchet 430 is included which is configured to selectively lock
the jaw members 410 and 420 relative to one another in at least one
position during pivoting. A first ratchet interface 431a extends from the
proximal end of shaft member 412a towards a second ratchet interface 431b
on the proximal end of shaft 412b in general vertical registration
therewith such that the inner facing surfaces of each ratchet 431a and
431b abut one another upon closure of the jaw members 410 and 420 about
the tissue. The ratchet position associated with the cooperating ratchet
interfaces 431a and 431b holds a specific, i.e., constant, strain energy
in the shaft members 412a and 412b which, in turn, transmits a specific
closing force to the jaw members 410 and 420.

[0089]The jaw members 410 and 420 are electrically isolated from one
another such that electrosurgical energy can be effectively transferred
through the tissue to form a tissue seal. Jaw members 410 and 420 both
include a uniquely-designed electrosurgical cable path disposed
therethrough which transmits electrosurgical energy to electrically
conductive sealing surfaces 412 and 422, respectively, disposed on the
inner facing surfaces of jaw members, 410 and 420.

[0090]Turning now to the remaining figures, FIGS. 4A-51B, various
envisioned embodiments of electrical insulating devices are shown for
shielding, protecting or otherwise limiting or directing electrical
currents during activation of the forceps 10, 400. More particularly,
FIGS. 4A-4C show one embodiment wherein the proximal portions of the jaw
members 110 and 120 and the distal end of shaft 12 are covered by the
resilient insulating boot 500 to reduce stray current concentrations
during electrosurgical activation especially in the monopolar activation
mode. More particularly, the boot 500 is flexible from a first
configuration (See FIG. 4B) when the jaw members 110 and 120 are disposed
in a closed orientation to a second expanded configuration (See FIGS. 4B
and 4C) when the jaw members 110 and 120 are opened. When the jaw members
110 and 120 open, the boot flexes or expands at areas 220a and 220b to
accommodate the movement of a pair of proximal flanges 113 and 123 of jaw
members 110 and 120, respectively. Further details relating to one
envisioned insulating boot 500 are described with respect to
commonly-owned U.S. application Ser. No. 11/529,798 entitled "INSULATING
BOOT FOR ELECTROSURGICAL FORCEPS", the entire contents of which being
incorporated by reference herein.

[0091]FIG. 5 shows another embodiment of an insulating boot 600 which is
configured to reduce stray current concentrations during electrical
activation of the forceps 10. More particularly, the insulating boot 600
includes a woven mesh 620 which is positioned over a proximal end of the
jaw members 110 and 120 and a distal end of the shaft 12. During
manufacturing, the mesh 620 is coated with a flexible silicone-like
material which is designed to limit stray currents from emanating to
surrounding tissue areas. The woven mesh 620 is configured to provide
strength and form to the insulating boot 600. The woven mesh 620 is also
configured to radially expand when the mesh 620 longitudinally contracts
(See FIGS. 9A and 9B).

[0092]FIGS. 6A and 6B show another embodiment of an insulating boot 700
which includes a pair of longitudinally extending wires 720a and 720b
encased within corresponding channels 710a and 710b, respectively,
defined within the boot 700. The wires 720a and 720b re-enforce the boot
700 and may be manufactured from conductive or non-conductive materials.
As can be appreciated, any number of wires 720a and 720b may be utilized
to support the insulating boot 700 and enhance the fit of the boot 700
atop the jaw members 110 and 120. The wires 720a and 720b may be adhered
to an outer periphery of the boot 700, adhered to an inner periphery of
the boot 700, recessed within one or more channels disposed in the outer
or inner periphery of the boot 700 or co-extruded or insert-molded into
the insulating boot 700. The wires 720a and 720b may be manufactured from
a flexible metal, surgical stainless steel, NiTi, thermoplastic, polymer,
high durometer material and combinations thereof.

[0093]FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of an insulating boot 800 which
includes a pair of circumferential wires 820a and 820b disposed within or
atop the boot 800. The wires 820a and 820b re-enforce the boot 700 at the
proximal and distal ends thereof and may be manufactured from conductive
or non-conductive materials such as flexible metals, surgical stainless
steel, NiTi, thermoplastic and polymers. Due to the tensile strength of
the wires 820a and 820b, the boot 800 stays in place upon insertion
though a cannula and further prevents the boot 800 from rolling onto
itself during repeated insertion and/or withdrawal from a cannula. As can
be appreciated, any number of wires 820a and 820b may be utilized to
support the insulating boot 800 and enhance the fit of the boot atop the
jaw members 110 and 120. For example, in one embodiment, the wires are
insert molded to the boot 800 during a manufacturing step.

[0094]FIGS. 8A-8E show yet another embodiment of an insulating boot 900
which includes a molded thermoplastic shell 905 having a series of slits
930a-930d disposed therethrough which are configured to flex generally
outwardly (See FIGS. 8C and 8E) upon the travel of the forceps shaft 12
to actuate the jaw members 110 and 120 to the open configuration. Shell
905 includes an inner periphery thereof lined with a silicone-like
material 910a and 910b which provides patient protection from
electrosurgical currents during activation while outer thermoplastic
shell 905 protects the silicone material 910a and 910b during insertion
and retraction from a surgical cannula (not shown). The outer shell 905
and the silicone-like material 910a and 910b may be overmolded or
co-extruded during assembly.

[0095]As mentioned above, the outer shell 905 expands at expansion points
935a and 935b upon contraction of the shaft 12 or movement of the jaw
members 110 and 120. During expansion of the shell 905, the shell 905
does not adhere to the inner silicone material 910a and 910b due the
inherent properties of the silicone material 910a and 910b and selective
texturing thereof. Shell 905 may also include an inner rim or latching
areas 915a and 915b disposed at the distal (and/or proximal) end thereof.
The latching areas 915a and 915b are configured to mechanically interface
with the jaw members 110 and 120 and hold the shell 905 in place during
relative movement of the shaft 12. Other mechanical interfaces 908 may
also be included which are configured to engage the shell 905 with the
jaw members and/or shaft 12, e.g., adhesive. The outer shell 905 may
include a relief section 911 to facilitate engagement of the outer shell
905 atop the jaw members 110 and 120.

[0096]FIGS. 9A and 9B show yet another embodiment of the insulating boot
1000 which is configured to include an insulative mesh 1010 disposed at
one end of boot 1000 and a silicone (or the like) portion 1020 disposed
at the other end thereof. Mesh portion 1010 is configured to radially
expand and longitudinally contract from a first configuration 1010 to a
second configuration 1010' as shown in FIG. 9B. The mesh portion 1010 is
typically associated with the part of the boot closest to the jaw members
110 and 120.

[0097]FIG. 10 shows yet another embodiment of the insulating boot 1100
which is configured to mechanically engage a corresponding mechanical
interface 1110 (e.g., detent or bump) disposed on a proximal end of the
jaw members, e.g., jaw member 110. An adhesive 1120 may also be utilized
to further mechanical retention. The at least one mechanical interface
1110 may also include a raised protuberance, flange, spike, cuff, rim,
bevel and combinations thereof. The mechanical interface 1110 may be
formed by any one of several known processes such as co-extrusion and
overmolding.

[0098]Similarly, one or both jaw members 110 and 120 may include an
underlapped or chamfered section 1215 which enhances mechanical
engagement with the insulating boot 1200. For example and as best shown
in FIG. 11, an adhesive 1210 may be utilized between the beveled section
1215 defined in jaw member 110 and the insulating boot 1200 to enhance
mechanical engagement of the boot 1200. Further and as best shown in FIG.
13, an adhesive 1410 may be utilized to atop the intersection of the
bevel 1415 and insulating boot 1400 to further mechanical retention of
the boot 1400. The adhesive 1410 may be configured to cure upon
application of heat, ultraviolet light, electrical energy or other ways
customary in the trade.

[0099]FIG. 12 shows yet another embodiment of an insulating boot 1300
which includes an internally-disposed glue ring 1310 disposed along the
inner periphery 1320 of the boot 1300. The glue ring 1310 is configured
to cure when heated or treated with light (or other energy) depending
upon a particular purpose or manufacturing sequence.

[0100]FIG. 14 shows yet another embodiment of an insulating boot 1500
which is configured to cooperate with a glue-like tape 1510 which holds
the insulating boot 1500 in place atop the proximal ends 111 and 121 of
the jaw members 110 and 120, respectively. Tape 1510 may be configured to
cure upon application of heat or other energy. The tape 1510 may also be
configured to include an aperture 1511 defined therein which is
dimensioned to receive the proximal end of the jaw members 110 and 120.

[0101]FIGS. 15A and 15B show yet another embodiment of an insulating boot
1600 which includes a series of electrical leads 1610a-1610i disposed
therethrough which are designed to electromechanically engage the jaw
members 110 and 120 and supply current thereto. More particularly, boot
1600 may include leads 1610a-1610d which carry on electrical potential to
jaw member 110 and leads 1610e-1610i which are designed to carry a second
electrical potential to jaw member 120. The leads 1610a-1610i may be
configured as metal strands disposed along the inner peripheral surface
of boot 1600 which are configured to provide electrical continuity to the
jaw members 110 and 120. The leads 1610a-1610f may be co-extruded or
insert molded to the inner periphery of the boot 1600. At least one of
the leads 1610a-1610i may be configured to carry or transmit a first
electrical potential and at least one of the leads 1610a-1610i may be
configured to carry a second electrical potential.

[0102]FIG. 16 shows yet another version of an insulating sheath or boot
1700 which is configured to be removable prior to insertion through a
cannula (not shown). Boot 1700 is designed like a condom and is filled
with a silicone lube 1710 and placed over the distal end of jaw members
110 and 120. Prior to insertion of the forceps 10 through a cannula, the
boot 1700 is removed leaving residual silicone 1710 to facilitate
insertion through the cannula. The forceps 10 may also include a second
insulating boot 500 to reduce current concentrations similar to any one
of the aforementioned embodiments or other embodiments described herein.

[0103]The present disclosure also relates to a method of facilitating
insertion of a forceps through a cannula and includes the steps of
providing a forceps including a shaft having a pair of jaw members at a
distal end thereof. The jaw members are movable about a pivot from a
first position wherein the jaw members are disposed in spaced relation
relative to one another to a second position wherein the jaw members are
closer to one another for grasping tissue. At least one of the jaw
members is adapted to connect to a source of electrical energy such that
the at least one jaw member is capable of conducting energy to tissue
held therebetween. An insulative sheath is disposed atop at least a
portion of an exterior surface of at least one jaw member, about the
pivot and the distal end of the shaft. The insulative sheath houses a
silicone lube configured to facilitate insertion of the forceps through a
cannula after removal of the insulative sheath.

[0104]The method also includes the steps of removing the insulative sheath
to expose the silicone lube atop the exterior surface of at least one jaw
member, about the pivot and the distal end of the shaft, engaging the
forceps for insertion through a cannula and inserting the forceps through
the cannula utilizing the silicone lube to facilitate insertion.

[0105]FIGS. 17A and 17B show still another embodiment of the insulating
boot 1800 which is configured as elastomeric shields 1800a and 1800b
which are overmolded atop the proximal ends of respective jaw members 110
and 120 during a manufacturing step. A retention element (e.g.,
mechanical interface 1110) may also be included which engages one or both
shields 1800a, 1800b. Once the forceps 10 is assembled, the elastomeric
shields 1800a and 1800b are configured to abut one another to reduce
stray current concentrations. FIGS. 18A and 18B show a similar version of
an insulating boot 1900 which includes two overmolded elastomeric shields
1900a and 1900b which are mechanically engaged to one another by virtue
of one or more weather strips 1910a and 1910b. More particularly, the
weather strips 1910a and 1910b are configured to engage and seal the two
opposing shields 1900a and 1900b on respective jaw members 110 and 120
during the range of motion of the two jaw members 110 and 120 relative to
one another.

[0106]FIGS. 19A and 19B show yet another embodiment of the insulating boot
2000 which includes an elastomeric or silicone boot similar to boot 500
wherein the outer periphery of he boot 2000 includes a plurality of ribs
2010a-2010h which extend along the length thereof. It is contemplated
that the ribs 2010a-2010h reduce the contact area of the boot with the
inner periphery of the cannula to reduce the overall surface friction of
the boot during insertion and withdrawal.

[0107]FIG. 20 shows still another embodiment of the insulating boot 2100
which includes a soft caulk or putty-like material 2110 formed atop or
within the boot which is configured to encapsulate the moving parts of
the forceps 10. As best shown in FIG. 21, an overmolded section 114' may
be formed over the proximal flange 113 of the jaw members, e.g., jaw
member 110, to provide a rest for the insulating boot 500 (or any other
version described above).

[0108]FIGS. 22A and 22B show yet another embodiment of an insulating boot
2200 which includes a plastic wedge-like material 2210a and 2210b formed
between the boot 2200 and the proximal end of the jaw member, e.g., jaw
member 110. The plastic wedges 2010a and 2010b are configured to allow a
range of motion of the jaw members 110 and 120 while keeping the boot
2200 intact atop the shaft 12 and the moving flanges 113 and 123 of the
jaw members 110 and 120, respectively.

[0109]FIGS. 23A and 23B show still another envisioned embodiment of an
insulating boot 2300 which includes an outer silicone-like shell 2310
which is dimensioned to house a layer of high resistance adhesive
material 2320. If high current flowing through the insulating boot 2300
causes a rupture in the boot 2300, the adhesive material 2320 melts and
flows through the ruptured portion to reduce the chances of current
leakage during activation. FIGS. 24A and 24B show a similar insulative
boot 2400 wherein the insulative boot 2400 includes a free flowing
material which is designed to flow through the ruptured portion to
provide additional insulation from current during activation. More
particularly, the boot 2400 includes an internal cavity 2410 defined
therein which retains a free-flowing material 2420. The free-flowing
material 2420 is configured to disperse from the internal cavity 2410
when ruptured. The free-flowing material 2420 may be a high resistive
adhesive, a lubricating material or an insulating material or
combinations thereof. The internal cavity 2410 may be annular and
disposed on a portion or the boot 2400 or may be longitudinal and
disposed along a portion of the boot 2400. The free-flowing material 2420
may be configured to change state between a solid state and a liquid
state upon the application of energy (e.g., heat energy) or light (e.g.,
ultraviolet). The free-flowing material 2420 may be disposed on either
the distal and/or proximal ends of the flexible insulating boot 2400.

[0110]FIG. 25 shows yet another embodiment of the insulting boot 2500
wherein the distal end of the shaft 12 and the jaw members 110 and 120
are overmolded during manufacturing with a silicone material (or the
like) to protect against stray current leakage during activation.

[0111]FIGS. 26A, 26B and 27 show other embodiments of an insulating boots
2600 and 2700, respectively, wherein boots 2600 and 2700 include low
durometer portions and high durometer portions. The boots 2600 and 2700
may be formed from a two-shot manufacturing process. More particularly,
FIGS. 26A and 26B include a boot 2600 with a high durometer portion 2610
having an elongated slot of low durometer material 2620 disposed therein
or therealong. The low durometer portion 2620 is dimensioned to
encapsulate the moving flanges 113 and 123 of the jaw members 110 and
120, respectively. FIG. 27 shows another embodiment wherein a ring of
high durometer material 2710 is disposed at the distal end of the boot
2700 for radial retention of the jaw members 110 and 120. The remainder
of the boot 2700 consists of low durometer material 2720.

[0112]FIG. 28 shows another embodiment of the present disclosure wherein
the insulating boot 2800 may be packaged separately from the forceps 10
and designed to engage the end of the shaft 12 and jaw members 110 and
120 upon insertion though a cannula 2850. More particularly, boot 2800
may be packaged with the forceps 10 (or sold with the cannula 2850) and
designed to insure 90 degree insertion of the forceps 10 through the
cannula 2850. The boot 2800 in this instance may be made from silicone,
plastic or other insulating material.

[0113]FIGS. 29A-29D include various embodiments of a boot 2900 having a
tapered distal end 2920 and a straight proximal end 2910. More
particularly, FIG. 29A shows a tapered bottle-like distal end 2920 which
is configured to provide enhanced retentive force at the distal end of
the forceps 10 which reduces the chances of the boot 2900 slipping from
the boot's 2900 intended position. FIG. 29B shows another version of the
tapered boot 2900' which includes a sharply tapered distal end 2920' and
a straight proximal end 2010'. FIG. 29c shows another boot 2900'' which
includes a square-like taper 2920'' at the distal end thereof and a
straight proximal end 2010''. FIG. 29D shows yet another version of a
tapered boot 2900''' which includes a square, tapered section 2930'''
disposed between distal and proximal ends, 2920''' and 2910''',
respectively. The outer diameter of the insulating boot 2900 or the inner
periphery of the insulating boot 2900 may include the tapered section.

[0114]FIG. 30 shows yet another embodiment of the presently disclosed boot
3000 which is configured to be utilized with a jaw member 110 having a
proximal overmolded section 114' similar to the jaw members disclosed
with respect to FIG. 21 above. More particularly, jaw member 110 includes
an overmolded section 114' having a bump or protrusion 115' disposed
thereon. Bump 115' is configured to mechanically cooperate with a
corresponding portion 3010 of boot 3000 to enhance retention of the boot
3000 atop the jaw member 100.

[0115]FIG. 31 shows still another embodiment of an insulating boot 500
which includes a silicone (or similar) ring-like sleeve which is
configured to engage and secure the boot 500 atop the shaft 12. FIG. 32
shows a similar boot 500 configuration wherein a pair of weather strips
3200a and 3200b are positioned to secure the boot 500 at the junction
point between the end of shaft 12 and the proximal end of the jaw members
110 and 120.

[0116]FIGS. 33A-33B show yet another embodiment of a co-molded boot 3300
having a silicone portion 3305 and proximal and side portions 3310c,
3310a and 3310b made a thermoplastic material (or the like). The
thermoplastic materials 3310a-3310c enhance the rigidity and durability
of the boot 3300 when engaged atop the jaw members 110 and 120 and the
shaft 12. Thermoplastic portions 3310a and 3310b may be dimensioned to
receive and/or mate with the proximal flanges 113 and 123 of jaw members
110 and 120, respectively.

[0117]FIG. 34 shows yet another embodiment of an insulating boot having a
silicone boot 3350 mounted under a plastic shell 3355. A heat shrink
tubing (or the like) 3360 is included which overlaps at least a portion
of the plastic shell 3355 and silicone boot 3350.

[0118]FIGS. 35A and 35B show still another embodiment of an insulating
boot 3400 which includes an overmolded thermoplastic clevis 3410 disposed
on an inner periphery thereof which is configured to enhance the
mechanical engagement of the boot 3400 with the jaw members 110 and 120
and shaft 12. More particularly, the clevis 3410 includes a pair of
fingers 3410a and 3410b which project inwardly to mechanically engage the
proximal end of jaw members 110 and 120. The proximal end of the boot
3400 fits atop the end of shaft 12 much like the embodiments described
above (See FIG. 35B). An outer shell 3402 is disposed atop the overmolded
thermoplastic clevis 3310 to enhance the rigidity of the boot 3400. The
clevis 3410 includes a channel 3412 defined between the two fingers 3410a
and 3410b which facilitates movement of the jaw members 110 and 120.

[0119]FIG. 36 shows yet another embodiment of an insulating boot 3500
which is similar to boot 3400 described above with respect to FIGS. 35A
and 35B and includes a thermoplastic clevis 3510 having a pair of fingers
3510a and 3510b which project inwardly to mechanically engage the
proximal end of jaw members 110 and 120. Boot 3500 also includes outer
thermoplastic portions 3520a and 3520b which are configured to further
enhance the rigidity of the boot 3500 and act as a so-called
"exoskeleton". A channel 3515 is defined between in the outer exoskeleton
to facilitate movement of the jaw members 110 and 120. The two outer
portions 3520a and 3520b also include a relief portion 3525 disposed
therebetween which allows the boot 3500 to expand during the range of
motion of jaw members 110 and 120.

[0120]FIG. 37 shows yet another embodiment of an insulating boot 3600
which includes a plurality of thermoplastic rails 3610a-3610d disposed
along the outer periphery thereof. The rails 3610a-3610d may be formed
during the manufacturing process by overmolding or co-extrusion and are
configured to enhance the rigidity of the boot 3600 similar to the
embodiment described above with respect to FIG. 19B.

[0121]FIGS. 38A-38D show still another embodiment of an insulating boot
3700 which includes a low durometer portion 3720 generally disposed at
the proximal end 3720 thereof and a high durometer portion 3730 generally
disposed at the distal end 3710 thereof. The high durometer portion 3730
may be configured to mechanically engage the low durometer portion 3725
or may be integrally associated therewith in a co-molding or over-molding
process. The inner periphery 3750 of the high durometer portion 3730 is
dimensioned to receive the flanges 113 and 123 of jaw members 110 and
120, respectively. The low durometer portion 3725 may be dimensioned to
allow the proximal ends 113 and 123 of flanges to flex beyond the outer
periphery of the shaft 12 during opening of the jaw members 110 and 120.
It is also contemplated that the high durometer portion 3730 (or a
combination of the high durometer portion 3730 and the low durometer
portion 3725) may act to bias the jaw members 110 and 120 in a closed
orientation.

[0122]FIGS. 39A-39D show yet another embodiment of an insulating boot 3800
which includes a low durometer portion 3825 and a high durometer portion
3830 generally disposed at the distal end 3810 thereof. The high
durometer portion 3830 includes proximally-extending fingers 3820a and
3820b which define upper and lower slots 3840a and 3840b, respectively,
dimensioned to receive upper and lower low durometer portions 3825a and
3825b, respectively. The inner periphery 3850 of the high durometer
portion 3830 is dimensioned to receive flanges 113 and 123 of jaw members
110 and 120, respectively. It is also contemplated that the high
durometer portion 3830 (or a combination of the high durometer portion
3830 and the low durometer portions 3825a and 3825b) may act to bias the
jaw members 110 and 120 in a closed orientation.

[0123]FIG. 40 shows yet another version of an insulating boot 3900 which
includes a pair of hook-like mechanical interfaces 3900a and 3900b which
are designed to engage the jaw members 110 and 120 at one end (e.g., the
hook ends 3905a and 3905b) and designed to engage the shaft 12 at the
opposite ends 3908a and 3908b, respectively. More particularly, the boot
3900 includes a pair of rails or slots 3912a and 3912b defined in an
outer periphery thereof which are dimensioned to receive the
corresponding hook-like mechanical interfaces 3900a and 3900b therealong.
The proximal ends 3908a and 3908b of the hook-like mechanical interfaces
3900a and 3900b are configured to secure about the shaft 12 during an
initial manufacturing step and then are held in place via the employment
of heat shrink wrapping 12'. The heat shrink wrapping 12' prevents the
hook-like mechanical interfaces 3900a and 3900b from slipping during
insertion and removal of the forceps 10 through a cannula.

[0124]FIG. 41 shows still another version of an insulating boot 4000 which
includes a series of pores 4010a-4010f disposed along the outer periphery
thereof. A heat-activated adhesive or lubricant 4030 is included in the
pores 4010a-4010f such that when the lubricant 4030 is heated, the
lubricant 4030 flows freely over the boot 4000 thereby facilitating
insertion and withdrawal of the forceps 10 from a cannula.

[0125]FIG. 42 shows still another embodiment of an insulating boot 500
which includes a strip of heat activated adhesive 4100 to secure the boot
500 to the jaw members 110 and 120. The heat activated adhesive 4100 is
designed to cure upon the application of heat to prevent unwanted motion
between the two jaw members 110 and 120 or between the jaw members 110
and 120 and the shaft 12. FIG. 43 shows similar concept which includes an
insulating boot 4200 having a pair of overlapping flanges 4220a and 4220b
which extend toward the jaw members 110 and 120 and which cooperate with
one or more apertures (not shown) defined in the proximal flanges 113 and
123 of the jaw members 110 and 120 to retain a heat-activated adhesive
4230 therein. Once heated, the adhesive 4230 cures and maintains a
strong, low profile bond between the boot 4200 and the jaw members 110
and 120.

[0126]FIGS. 44A and 44B show still another embodiment of an insulating
boot 4300 which involves a two-step process for deployment atop the jaw
members 110 and 120. During an initial manufacturing step the boot 4300
is in the form of an uncured adhesive sleeve 4300 and is fitted atop the
proximal ends of the jaw members 110 and 120 and the shaft 12. Once
properly positioned, the uncured adhesive sleeve 4300 is then cured using
heat or UV light such that the cured boot 4300' creates a conformal
coating atop the jaw members 110 and 120 and acts to secure the boot
4300' to the jaw members 110 and 120 and shaft 12 and insulate the
surrounding tissue from negative electrical and thermal effects.

[0127]FIGS. 45A and 45B show still another embodiment of an insulating
boot 4400 which also involves a two-step process for deployment atop the
jaw members 110 and 120. During an initial manufacturing step the boot
4400 includes a ring of uncured adhesive material 4410 disposed along an
inner periphery thereof. The boot 4400 with the uncured adhesive ring
4410 and is fitted atop the proximal ends of the jaw members 110 and 120
and the shaft 12. Once properly positioned, the uncured adhesive ring
4410 is then cured using heat or UV light such that the cured boot 4400'
conforms atop the jaw members 110 and 120 and acts to secure the boot
4400' to the jaw members 110 and 120 and shaft 12.

[0128]FIG. 46 shows still another embodiment of the present disclosure
which includes a coating 110' and 120' disposed on the exposed portions
of the jaw members 110 and 120. The coating 110' and 120' may be made
from an insulating material or made from a material that increases
resistance with heat or current. The tip portion 111 of the jaw members
110 is exposed and does not include the coating material such that
electrosurgical energy may be effectively transferred to tissue via the
exposed tip portion 111.

[0129]As mentioned above, the insulating boot 500 may be from any type of
visco-elastic, elastomeric or flexible material that is biocompatible and
that is configured to minimally impede movement of the jaw members 110
and 120 from the open to closed positions. The insulating boot 1500 may
also be made at least partially from a curable material which facilitates
engagement atop the jaw members 110 and 120 and the shaft 12. The
presently disclosed insulating boots 500-4400' described herein above may
also be utilized with any of the forceps designs mentioned above for use
with both endoscopic surgical procedures and open surgical procedures and
both bipolar electrosurgical treatment of tissue (either by vessel
sealing as described above or coagulation or cauterization with other
similar instruments) and monopolar treatment of tissue.

[0130]The aforedescribed insulating boots, e.g., boot 500, unless
otherwise noted, are generally configured to mount over the pivot,
connecting jaw member 110 with jaw member 120. The insulating boots,
e.g., boot 500, is flexible to permit opening and closing of the jaw
members 110 and 120 about the pivot.

[0131]From the foregoing and with reference to the various figure
drawings, those skilled in the art will appreciate that certain
modifications can also be made to the present disclosure without
departing from the scope of the same. For example and although the
general operating components and inter-cooperating relationships among
these components have been generally described with respect to a vessel
sealing forceps, other instruments may also be utilized that may be
configured to include any of the aforedescribed insulating boots to allow
a surgeon to safely and selectively treat tissue in both a bipolar and
monopolar fashion. Such instruments include, for example, bipolar
grasping and coagulating instruments, cauterizing instruments, bipolar
scissors, etc.

[0132]Furthermore, those skilled in the art recognize that while the
insulating boots described herein are generally tubular, the
cross-section of the boots may assume substantially any shape such as,
but not limited to, an oval, a circle, a square, or a rectangle, and also
include irregular shapes necessary to cover at least a portion of the jaw
members and the associated elements such as the pivot pins and jaw
protrusions, etc.

[0133]While several embodiments of the disclosure have been shown in the
drawings, it is not intended that the disclosure be limited thereto, as
it is intended that the disclosure be as broad in scope as the art will
allow and that the specification be read likewise. Therefore, the above
description should not be construed as limiting, but merely as
exemplifications of particular embodiments. Those skilled in the art will
envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims
appended hereto.